Ten Repair Ignition Lock Cylinder Products That Can Help You Live Better How to Repair an Ignition Lock Cylinder

If your car's ignition key isn't turning and it's time to replace the ignition lock cylinder. The lock cylinder is a tumbler made of mechanical which your key slides into, in contrast to the switch, which is an electrical component of the ignition system.

Over time, "wafers" can break or wear out. WD-40 and graphite may temporarily resolve the issue, but replacing the tumblers is the only way to fix it.

Eliminating the Steering Column

Modern cars don't have steering column locks. They use keys to start the vehicle by pressing and turning the switch on the dashboard panel. This modern system is easier and more efficient than the old lock cylinder method. Some older cars still use the old lock cylinder. If this component fails, it could be required to replace it to allow the car to start. This is not an activity for the beginner and should be left to professionals.

Utilizing a screwdriver, you can remove the fasteners that hold the trim panels that surround the lower and upper steering column. This will give you access to the area around the steering column.

On the side of the column that is closest to the driver, you will notice an Allen head bolt that holds the signal and wiper assembly to the column. Unscrew this bolt and place it aside. Depending on the year of your car, you may have 3 or 4 small screws with flat heads that hold the plastic cover over the turn signal switch in place. Unscrew them and put them aside.

To get to the lock cylinder, you'll need to take off the signal/wiper unit. This will require the use of a specially designed tool, or you could to do it using the help of a piece of metal, such as a cold chisel. Locksmiths can also utilize a bolt removal kit.

If you are unable to insert the key into the ignition switch the lock cylinder could be stuck. Try inserting the key, then moving it to the ACC position to press the pin on the lock cylinder, or you can contact a locksmith for help.

Locksmiths can use a shear tool to remove the lock cylinder, or they can make use of a torch to cut the pin, then shave it down to remove it. auto ignition key replacement can re-key your ignition cylinder to ensure it matches the keys you already have. This will save you money on the purchase of a new ignition.

Replacing the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition Cylinder is a cylindrical mechanical part that houses and locks the key of your vehicle. The cylinder "reads" the anti-theft codes and matches your key to allow you to start or stop your car. Over time, the cylinder can wear out. It could also be bent or damaged. In this case you'll need to replace the cylinder to get your car started.

A damaged or worn cylinder can cause problems turning the key, or the ignition switch to not move into the ACC position or RUN or a warning lamp to appear on the dashboard. If you have an extra, use it in the lock. You may be able to smooth the cylinder using graphite or WD-40, however this method only works for a certain amount of time.

If you've got a new key you can replace the ignition cylinder, and follow the steps outlined above to install it. Install the new ignition cylinder by making sure it's securely placed into the steering column tube flange and aligned with keyway on the shroud. If you are unsure of the proper alignment of the cylinder, check your car's repair manual or an expert.

Once the cylinder has been installed and the ignition switch is turned to ACC or RUN. Listen for a click that indicates the ignition switch is fully set in the cylinder. If your vehicle is equipped with an anti-theft device, you'll be required to go through the anti theft relearn procedure to programme the new ignition cylinder to your key.

Some experts recommend that you hire a professional to replace your ignition cylinder. This is because it's often necessary to disable the airbag on the steering column in order in order to access the cylinder. The replacement may require the removal of the steering wheel and the covers for ignition. For these reasons, this is a job that should be left to a skilled mechanic. They'll be able remove the steering column cover and install a brand new ignition lock cylinder into your vehicle. They'll also be able make sure that the ignition lock cylinder is programmed with your key, and that it is properly started when you insert it.

Installing the Ignition Cylinder

While ignition lock cylinders are becoming less necessary in modern vehicles because of advances in push-to-start and remote start systems, they are still common on older cars. If you have trouble starting your car or the ignition switch is not working it could be due to an issue with your ignition cylinder. It's simple to fix the issue by replacing the cylinder for your ignition lock.


The ignition the cylinder is a part of the system that connects to the ignition switch of your vehicle and provides power to the rest of the engine. The ignition switch and ignition cylinder are two distinct components. The switch is the electrical portion that connects to your car's computer and transmits signals to turn on the motor when you turn the ignition key.

Pins on ignition lock cylinders move up and down, allowing your key to move and rotate within the cylinder. Each movement of the cylinder and the key creates a small amount of friction that keeps the key in place, but in time, these tiny movements can cause the tumblers on the wafer to wear down. When the tumblers are worn down, the key of your car won't be able slide into or turn the cylinder.

The first indication of trouble is usually a worn-out ignition coil that is found in the majority of automobiles. The key may also become stuck and difficult to insert into or out of the ignition lock cylinder. These are indications that you need to replace your ignition lock cylinder as quickly as possible.

It's easy to change your ignition cylinder, however, you should only do it if you are confident that you will follow the correct procedure for your specific make and model. You can complete the job quickly and correctly with a complete repair manual for your vehicle. If you're not confident installing the ignition cylinder yourself make one of our ASE certified mobile mechanics perform the repair for you at a time and in a location that's convenient for you.

Test the Ignition Cylinder

The ignition lock cylinder, also referred to as the ignition lock cylinder is a mechanical component that fits your key to permit it to turn and start your vehicle. It is placed inside the ignition switch, which secures the ignition, and reads the anti-theft codes to allow the key to turn. The cylinder that locks the ignition may wear out and eventually fail. This could cause issues with the vehicle's power supply or make it difficult to remove and insert keys.

The main indicators that a lock cylinder is about to go bad include difficulty starting your vehicle or finding places where the key gets stuck when you try to turn it. These signs usually mean that the cylinder has damaged and needs replacement. In some cases you may notice a warning light on your dashboard that signals an imminent failure.

As the cylinder age it is likely to be damaged due to wear and wear and tear. This can cause the wafer tumblers and pins to wear out, damage or even break, which could make it impossible for your car's ignition to continue working. The ignition may still work in certain situations when you move it around. However, this could be a sign that something is not right.

You can test the cylinder of your ignition and determine whether the cylinder or key is damaged or worn out. If you have a multimeter, it is possible to probe the module's red wire connection and the ignition coil's battery terminal to determine if there's the voltage. If you are unable to detect any voltage, the module and switch will likely need to be replaced.

Replacing the ignition cylinder typically costs between $200 and $300, and it's usually best to let an experienced mechanic complete the job. The process is complicated by the fact that you may need to remove other components to access the ignition cylinder, including the steering column. Depending on your vehicle, the replacement procedure can also require disabling the airbag system, and you'll need to reprogram your key to work with the new cylinder. It's usually done by an agent. However, you can do it yourself if you have the proper tools and instructions.